Talking a good game

Arsene Wenger says Mesut Ozil can give Arsenal a head start against Chelsea in the Community Shield today

Ian Whittell

Sunday August 02 2015, 1.01am, The Sunday Times

Ian Whittell

Sunday August 02 2015, 1.01am, The Sunday Times

THE fact that Wigan and Portsmouth have both graced the FA Community Shield within the past seven years hardly bolsters the argument that English football’s traditional opening salvo merits anything more than the most cursory regard but, as Arsène Wenger and Jose Mourinho renew hostilities at Wembley today, the early-season form of Arsenal warrants particular examination.

Twelve months ago, Wenger’s team beat Manchester City 3-0 in the corresponding fixture, won just two of their next seven league and cup games and stuttered into a frustrating season that featured the now annual debate over his job security before a strong end to the league campaign and success in the FA Cup final.

By his own admission, Wenger’s interest in the title was over within the first